Special Olympics New York hosts basketball competition

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — Special Olympics New York hosted a multi-region basketball competition Saturday at Nazareth College.

Approximately 170 athletes from Western New York, Central New York, the Genesee Region, and Southern Tier went for the gold in team and skills competitions throughout the day.

"It’s so monumental because we are back in the game. They’re on the court. They’re with their friends having some good-spirited competition and you really can’t ask for anything more at this point," said Kelly Ligozio, Special Olympics Genesee Region.

With the help of more than 50 volunteers, the event included free health screenings for participating athletes in dental, hearing, fitness, and mental health disciplines.

Special Olympics New York is the largest state chapter in the country, serving more than 31,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with about 250 schools statewide to offer Unified Sports, where students with and without disabilities compete as teammates.

For additional information about Special Olympics New York, to learn more about getting involved, or to make a donation, visit their website.